49ERS WILL CONCLUDE CHARGERS’ PRESEASON

The preseason is the best time to face the NFC West, which looks like the league’s best division.

The Chargers will get that chance, including a home game against the NFC champion San Francisco 49ers.

In all, San Diego will face three NFC West teams in the preseason, plus the Bears in an ESPN-televised exhibition at Soldier Field.

“A great test,” coach Mike McCoy said.

The team’s 2013 preseason schedule, announced Thursday, begins with a home game against the Seahawks, followed by road games against the Bears and Cardinals. The finale brings the 49ers to San Diego.

“To be able to compete against two playoff teams at home will help us in our preparation for the season,” McCoy said. “It will also be good experience for us to play two outstanding teams on the road, including a game on national TV.”

The Chargers said dates and kickoff times for all but the Bears game — Aug. 15, 5 p.m. PDT — will be announced at another time.

The 49ers are coming off a Super Bowl loss to the Ravens. Their chief rival, the Seahawks, won a playoff game and added a versatile playmaker, Percy Harvin.

“Overall,” McCoy said, “the preseason will be a good opportunity for us to get ready for the regular season.”